Nicole van der Kaay, extends relationship with Asics NZ, as she heads to Abu Dhabi for first race on route to Paris
Ahead of the first World Championship Series race of the year in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Nicole van der Kaay reveals how a change in coach and training group will give her the edge as all eyes look to Paris.
Nicole, who will race both the individual event on Friday March 8th, and the relay on Saturday March 9th, is coming to Abu Dhabi full of confidence, saying; “I’m pumped for Abu Dhabi.
“Firstly to see the progress from the different training approach and two as it will provide a moment to evaluate, reset and taper before another big train block!
“I am excited to see where my body is at having done a lot of base work but not much speed work yet. I know I will have heaps of room to sharpen before the big dance in July.”
After Abu Dhabi, Nicole plans to head to World Triathlon Championship Series races in Yokohama Japan on May 11, Cagliari, Italy on May 25th and Hamburg, Germany on July 13 and 14th before the Women’s Olympic race on July 31st, followed by the relay August 5th.
Asked how she is feeling ahead of Paris, Nicole comments; “I am leaving no stone unturned for Paris. Literally all in. I‘m leaving friends, family and all comforts behind to join one of the best female triathlete squads in the world which will give me the best chance possible for success.
“Paris will be buzzing with excitement as the Olympics approach, where the world’s greatest athletes will converge to showcase their talents in the ‘City of Light’! You really have to be all in this year if you want to be in the mix.”
Asked what the key challenges and steps along the way are, she adds; “Training wise my biggest focus is on my swimming, reducing the gap from the front pack is key, hence one of the biggest motivators to move to a triathlon squad with large swim emphasis.
“Another major hurdle this year is finance, leaving home for 10-months plus leaves a hefty accommodation bill through hotels and bed and breakfasts. Additional to coaching fees and travel, with one shot at the Olympics.
Nicole adds; “I am very grate full to the team at Asics New Zealand for extending their partnership this year. Without their, and the Federation’s, support I would not have been able to head off overseas at all.
This and new support from Shokz headphones is crucial but being completely transparent, I could really do with some Kiwi corporate’s getting behind the push to Paris and beyond.”
Nicole concludes by saying; “Until Paris there is but one goal, after that I will hopefully race the SuperTri and then later in the year try some middle-distance racing for the first time!”
Follows Nicole’s journey to Paris on Instagram on @ nicolevdkaay.
